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    Nightdale College HESI Pharmacology RN Proctored Exam

    A client with psychosis who is receiving an antipsychotic medication is continually rubbing the back of the neck. Which nursing intervention is best for the nurse to implement?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A reason: Providing a heating pad to the client may provide some temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying cause of the neck discomfort, which is likely due to extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) of the antipsychotic medication. Choice B reason: Obtaining a prescription for physical therapy services may be beneficial for the client's overall health and well-being, but it is not the best intervention for the acute problem of neck discomfort. Physical therapy may also require a referral and a waiting period, which would delay the relief for the client. Choice C reason: Giving a PRN prescription for benztropine is the best intervention for the nurse to implement, as benztropine is an anticholinergic medication that can counteract the EPS of the antipsychotic medication. Benztropine can reduce the muscle stiffness and spasms that cause the neck discomfort. Choice D reason: Obtaining an extra pillow for the client to use at night may help the client sleep better, but it does not address the neck discomfort during the day. It also does not treat the EPS of the antipsychotic medication, which may worsen over time.

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